Tories

Definition

Tories were American colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolutionary War. This group, also known as Loyalists, opposed the revolution and supported British rule, often leading to conflicts with patriot factions. Their allegiance to Britain was rooted in various factors, including economic interests, fear of disorder, and a belief in the legitimacy of British governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tories made up about 15-20% of the colonial population, highlighting a significant division within American society during the Revolutionary War.
2. Many Tories faced social and economic repercussions, including property confiscation and violence from Patriot groups, leading to a migration to Canada or back to Britain.
3. The term 'Tory' originally referred to a political faction in England that supported royal authority against Parliament, which influenced its use in the colonies.
4. During the war, Tories served as spies or informants for British forces, contributing to military operations against Patriot rebels.
5. After the war, many Tories were denied rights in the new American states and struggled with reintegration into society due to their loyalty to Britain.

Review Questions

• How did the presence of Tories impact the social dynamics within colonial America during the Revolutionary War?
  • The presence of Tories significantly impacted social dynamics as they represented a substantial faction opposing revolutionaries. This led to divisions within communities, where neighbors turned against each other based on their loyalties. The conflicts between Tories and Patriots often escalated into violence, affecting relationships and creating an atmosphere of distrust in many areas.
• In what ways did economic factors contribute to the loyalty of Tories to the British Crown during the Revolutionary War?
  • Economic factors played a critical role in Tory loyalty as many loyalists had financial ties to Britain through trade, land ownership, or government positions. They feared that a break from British rule would disrupt their businesses and livelihoods. Additionally, some Tories believed that British protection would safeguard their economic interests better than independence could provide.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences for Tories after the American Revolution and how it affected their legacy in both America and Britain.
  • The long-term consequences for Tories were profound as many lost their property and faced ostracism in post-revolutionary America. Their legacy became one of division, illustrating the complexities of loyalty in a revolutionary context. In Britain, Tories were often viewed with a mix of sympathy for their plight and criticism for their loyalty. The experience of Tories highlights the challenges of reconciliation in a society emerging from conflict and shaped future discussions on civil rights and national identity.

Related terms

Loyalists: Colonists who remained loyal to the British monarchy during the American Revolution, often facing persecution from patriot groups.

Patriots: Colonists who rebelled against British authority, advocating for independence and self-governance during the American Revolutionary War.

British Empire: The global territories controlled by Britain during the 18th century, which included the American colonies and influenced colonial loyalty during the Revolution.